Look at the centre of Africa, and one will find the Central African Republic. This part of the world features fascinating natural beauty and amazing wildlife species that make it one of the top safari destinations. Also known as Centrafrique, Central African Republic is a landlocked country bordered by Chad to the north, Sudan to the northeast, South Sudan to the east, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the south, and Cameroon to the west. Its capital and largest city is Bangui.

What to see & do

Travellers visiting Central African Republic will have to abide by the security bulletins from their own embassy. It is advisable that one should go around here to experience the Central African environment once peace is restored and the general situation is now stable. For tourists going here, one of the main attractions is the Dzanga-Sangha National Park where one will see gorillas, elephants, and other wildlife species. Schedule a tour here with a knowledgeable guide who will point out specific areas of the park to view the safety of its animal residents.

The Manovo-Gounda St Floris National Park is also a place not to be missed. Its wealth of flora and fauna is duly recognised by the international community. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, this park is protected to maintain its fascinating ecosystem. Various wildlife species live here such as black rhinoceroses, cheetahs, leopards, wild dogs, red-fronted gazelles, and buffaloes. Several types of waterfowl can also be found roaming in the northern floodplains, which can be enthralling to behold.

Although in ruins, the palace of Jean-Bedel Bokassa can still make one stare at the surroundings. A broken shell of its former grandeur, the derelict palace is a poor reflection of its heyday when the self-styled emperor Bokassa I lived in it. The sight may be depressing in its dilapidated condition, but the place brings to mind the cannibalistic personality who used to rule the country with his iron fist and spendthrift ways.

Another destination to look forward to is M'Baiki, a place rich in arable land that sustained the growth of coffee and tobacco. Timber is also taken from here, as well as ebony sculptures in nearby Sabe. From here, tourists can go down to Bangui where one will see Musee de Boganda which features several musical instruments that show the tribal interest in making melodious sounds. Bars, dance clubs, and a large marketplace can also be found here where one can observe the locals' way of life and having fun.

How to get around within Central African Republic

Travellers will have to maximise their patience when going around in this country in Central Africa. One will find it difficult to commute as there is a lack of comfortable modes of transport. At present, overcrowded minibuses ply the routes between Bangui and all the major towns. Trucks and pick-ups also make up the rest of the public utility vehicles on the bumpy, potholed roads which can turn muddy and impassable during the rainy days.